Equality and related notions of equity, fairness and justice are central to inclusive values. Inequality, inequity, unfairness and injustice are forms of exclusion.

Equality is not about everyone being the same or being treated in the same way but about everyone being treated as of equal worth. This has implications for how adults and children behave towards each other in schools. It affects the way children are grouped between and within schools and classes, so that hierarchies of worth are avoided. It concerns, too, the way schools are managed.

An inclusive view of equality is not about ‘equality of opportunity’ to unequal status, wealth and living conditions but about reducing such inequalities.